Tips for Cooking With Pumpkins

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the value of the pumpkins produced each year in America averages around $113 million. The top pumpkin-producing states in the country include Michigan, New York, Illinois, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and California. Millions of pumpkins are used each year for fall and Halloween decoration, but many people may be surprised to learn that there are a number of tasty ways to use pumpkin in cooking, as well.

“When we see pumpkins, we tend to think of them as something to carve up for the holiday,” explains Ryan Fichter, Executive Chef of Thunder Burger. “Yet there are lots of great ways that you can use pumpkin to cook tasty dishes. There are many options, including main dishes, soups, and desserts that use pumpkin.”

When it comes to using this member of the gourd family in your cooking, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Season. Pumpkins are in their ripe season during October and November. This is the best time to get the freshest pumpkins. If you find them a couple of months past that, they may still be fresh, but they are not a product of the main peak season.

• Selection. When selecting your pumpkin, opt for one that is completely orange. Avoid any that have spots that are not ripe, as they may not ripen more after purchasing. Also, avoid pumpkins that have soft spots, bruises, or little holes. Small holes can be an indicator of insects. Try to find one that looks the best, with a nice color and very few to no blemishes.

• Cutting. Before cutting your pumpkin, wash it thoroughly first. Choose a nice big knife for the job, then proceed to cut the pumpkin in half, splitting it open evenly.

• Preparing. Once your pumpkin is split open, remove the seeds and strings. You can cook and eat the pumpkin seeds, as well. These can be baked or roasted, and they make a tasty treat. Then, choose your favorite recipe to use the flesh of the pumpkin. However, note that some recipes call for leaving the pumpkin whole. In that case, you would cut the top off and remove the seeds and strings, rather than cutting it open.

• Ask questions. If you are unsure as to which pumpkin will be best for what you are preparing, ask questions. Those selling the pumpkins can usually point you in the direction of the best pumpkins for pies, soups, etc.

“Using pumpkin in your cooking or for one of your meals is a great way to add a fall flavor for your family,” added Fichter. “Once you try cooking with pumpkin, there is a good chance you will be picking up more than one, every year after that, to cook with.”

Try this delicious pumpkin soup recipe by Chef Fichter:

Pumpkin and Coconut Soup Serves 4

2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil 2 medium-sized white onions, peeled and diced 4 garlic cloves, chopped 1 small pumpkin, about 3 pounds, seeded, rind removed and chopped into large dice 1 tsp. red chili flakes 1/2 tsp. ground allspice Water to cover the pumpkin 1 (12-ounce) can coconut milk Salt and pepper to taste Toasted coconut as garnish In a large stockpot, heat the oil over medium heat and saute the onions and garlic until translucent. Add the pumpkin, chili flakes, and allspice, and cover with enough water to completely cover the pumpkin. Add the coconut milk, reduce the heat to low, and cook until the pumpkin is tender.Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until then with and immersion blender puree until it is smooth; adjust seasonings with salt and pepper, and garnish with toasted coconut.

In addition to serving 15 different burger options, their menu features such dishes as salads, appetizers, sandwiches, steak, fish and chips, crab cakes, ribs, salmon, and more. Thunder Burger is located at 3056 M. St., NW in Washington D.C. Their hours are Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 a.m., Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30a.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. Along with daily dining, they also offer private event hosting and gift cards. Information and reservations can be obtained online at www.thunderburger.com.

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